Daniel R. Greenfield | Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States | 06/30/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Bridge is an album for people who have a mature and eclectic taste in music. In every sense of the word, this album is a bridge. And you will not care for this album, unless you are capable of walking across this bridge: Maria Sevag, the main violinist of this album and Oystein Sevag's wife, comes from a classical background, whereas Sevag's own Global House Band has always been played a jazzy adult contemporary music, with a sophisticated northern European flavor. I've read some negative reviews of this album from people who listen mainly to pop and ambient music. And as a rule, I would say that such people do not enjoy the walk out on this bridge. But as one who often listens to contemporary classical music, this album has always been a very positive listening experience.Whether the album works for you, one thing is certain: you can't render an intelligent verdict on this album until you have let in grow into you. And trust me: This charismatic music will grow into you - if you let it. You will feel the icy cold northern ocean punish your face (as in Cobalt), and the hot gypsy passion seduce your libido (as in Pulse). There are really two types of music here: the hot, jazzy, seductively sensual; and the cold, dark, semi-classical, restrained, romantic, mostly with violin and piano. In summary, I would say that this is a sophisticated album for adults with an eclectic taste and appreciation for both classical and jazz."
Another winner from Oystein
D. Stephen Haynes | San Francisco, CA United States | 04/28/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"If you like Jazz, world music, and New Age, then this is another great album for you. This is yet another outstanding album from Oystein. It's easy to get caught up in a whirlwind of emotion from the music. This album is perfect for relaxing or spending romantic time with your significant other. I also suggest checking out Global House, but Bridge seems to be a little more mature. The 30 second clips online don't do the album justice, but they do give you a small taste of what's on the album."
"First heard a selection from this CD on InterNet Radio at work.. bought the CD, LOVED IT! Several cool-jazz pieces delightfully alternating with hauntingly beautiful selections such as "COBALT". Think everyone will enjoy this versatile collection of NewAge goodies!!"
Awesome range!
SANDY YURMONOVICH | 09/21/1998
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is truly an amazing work. Sevag uses 64 (if I remember correctly)different instruments. A totally new, otherwordly sound that is insipiring, evocative, and uplifting. Haunting music!"
Oystein's most mature work
Marius Cipolla | 10/03/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Richly orchestrated, with lush arrangements and complex themes, this is Oystein's best album yet -- and that's saying something. Reviewers who have knocked this album seem to have been expecting something else; but this is an album you should come to with an open mind. It is also definitely an album for adult listeners. It is too refined to appeal to listeners used to the mushy end of New Age music, or who don't already listen to and enjoy serious orchestral music.
Though the music here is never difficult, it isn't just background ambient schlock. Sevag's talents as a composer/arranger are at their peak, and this is the culmination of a career it has been a great pleasure to follow. Like so many Nordic musicians, he has found his way to a stately, rather grand style that ranges between Romantic and Baroque.